Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the questions we are most regularly asked. If you have any questions that can't be answered here please don't hesitate to contact us.

FAQ Index

  1. What finish should I choose for my fencing?
  2. When can I put security toppings on my fence?
  3. Do I need to obtain planning permission for my fence?
  4. Will Paradise Design & Manufacturing apply for planning permission for me?
  5. Do you have a brochure with all your fences in it?
  6. Why do I need a service contract for my automated gates?
  7. How do I know if a fencing contractor is reputable?

What finish should I choose for my fencing?

Most steel fencing and gate systems can be supplied either in a galvanised finish, or galvanised and polyester powder coated. If you choose polyester powder coating then not only will the product life expectancy be increased but you will also have a range of colours to choose from.

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When can I put security toppings on my fence?

We would strongly advise that you always consult your local authority planning department as rules do vary from authority to authority. Our general experience is that authorities require the fence to be at least 1.8mtr high (before the topping) and preferably 2.0mtr high or more. The authority will also consider the immediate environment and how likely it is that innocent members of the public may come into contact with the topping.If the topping contains razor barbs, and even if you have permission to use it, then you should still always ensure that warning labels are fixed to the fence and clearly visible to the public at all times.

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Do I need to obtain planning permission for my fence?

We would always advise that you check your with your local planning officer as regulations do vary from authority to authority. As a general guide,however, it is unusual for planning permission to be needed for fences that are less than 1.8mtr high. In some areas (e.g. conservation areas) product type may also be an issue as planning officers often do not wish to see fence types that are out of keeping with the surrounding environment.

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Will PD&M apply for planning permission for me?

Paradise Design & Manufacturing are not able to apply for planning permission on your behalf, however we can guide you in the process. We have a lot of experience working with local authorities to know what might and might not be acceptable to them. We can also provide you with literature on your chosen product which can be submitted with your planning application, and which should help the process run that bit smoother.

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Do you have a brochure with all your fences in it?

Yes! click here if you would like us to send you a copy. Alternatively you can download it from here .

Please note that you will require Adobe Acrobat Reader version 5.0 or greater in order to read our brochure. Click here to download Adobe Acrobat Reader for free.

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Why do I need a service contract for my automated gates?

An automated gate (and barriers, turnstiles and roadblockers for that matter) come under many of the same regulations as any piece of machinery within a factory. This means that the owner is responsible for ensuring that it remains safe to use. The best way of achieving this is to have the gate routinely serviced and maintained by a professional company. Not only does this ensure legislative compliance but it also maximises the lifetime of the product.

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How do I know if a fencing contractor is reputable?

Much as we would like you just to come to Paradise Design & Manufacturing for all your fence installation work we understand the need to get more than one quotation so you can compare value for money. So where do you go other than Paradise Design & Manufacturing?

Personal recommendation from someone you know who has had similar work done is always a good starting point, but if you dont know anyone in this position then we suggest you look out for someone who :-

  •  Is registered with one or more independant assessment organisations.
  • Can offer you references (customer names and locations) for similar schemes to your own
  • Has appropriate insurances in place and can provide proper method statements and risk assessments for your planned works 
  • Provides detailed written quotations for the work so that there are no 'misunderstandings' later on
  • Can show proof of ongoing customer satisfaction surveys and the results from them

None of the above are a guarantee of satisfaction on their own but the more of these comforts that you can get from one source then the more likely it is that you will be satisfied at the end of your project.

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